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Silver Bells, Silver Bells, It’s Breastfeeding time at the Holidays

​The holidays are upon us. The errand-running, food-making, family-gathering busy season. It can feel joyous and special, even among the craziness of it all. When you have a nursing baby, especially a newborn, the excitement grows even more. Family wants to see the baby, give gifts, and be a part of this special time. The busy holiday season can also be a challenge for new parents as you navigate time with the baby, breastfeeding, and keeping away sickness. I’ve collected some of the best tips for maintaining your breastfeeding relationship, keeping baby fed, and maintaining your supply during the holiday season.​

You are the Parent - As we spend time with family, many well-meaning family members give advice and offer to care for the baby. Take them up on it if it fits your parenting style, but remember you are the parent. Some people may suggest things that don’t feel right to you, and it’s ok to politely decline, or nod and smile, and then continue doing what you are doing.

Set a Timer - Normally I recommend watching the baby and following his/her cues, rather than watching a clock, however during the holidays time can get away from us. If you are running errands or travelling, your baby may fall into a lulled sleep and may not show you signs of hunger. The same may happen in a swing during a holiday celebration, or when being passed around from family member to family member. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to feed the baby. (Your breasts may also serve as a natural timer when they start to feel full).

Keep Baby Healthy - Most people nowadays are cognizant of passing germs to babies, but you may want to be proactive. Don’t be afraid to ask people to wash their hands, use hand sanitizer, or not kiss the baby. While we want babies to build a strong immune system, newborns are more susceptible to germs. It’s a good thing you are providing them with all those strong antibodies through your breast milk!

Wear Your Baby - Use a wrap or carrier to keep your baby close. It will help keep baby calm, you can easily respond to his/her hunger cues, it’s an easy place for a nap, and it’s a polite way to keep many hands away in case of sickness.

Take Time Away - Nursing a baby is the perfect reason to excuse yourself and spend some quiet time with your baby in another room. Holidays can be overwhelming even for adults, and as a new parent, you may need a few minutes to rest quietly and breath. All of the activity may also over-stimulate your baby and s/he may need some quiet time with you.

Nurse Where You Want To - Although the previous tip mentioned moving to another room, remember that it’s also okay to nurse where you are most comfortable. If you don’t want to miss anything, find a comfortable spot amid the group and nurse your baby. Breastfeeding is a normal part of you and your baby’s life, and you have every right to nurse your baby where you see fit.

Accept Help - Hopefully with family and friends around, people will be willing to help. Don’t be afraid to tell them what you really need - hold the baby while you take a shower, or let you have time with your baby while they change the laundry or load the dishwasher. Most people want to do something truly helpful and will appreciate your candor.

Enjoy a Drink - It’s okay to drink alcohol while you are breastfeeding. It stays in the breast milk a similar amount of time it stays in your blood. A great time to have a drink is right before, or while you are breastfeeding. It takes a bit of time to get into the milk, and then by the time baby is hungry again, it will have dissipated. Don’t be afraid to enjoy a drink during the holidays.

In the end, the most important tip is to treasure the holidays and this time with your little one. I know it can feel overwhelming, especially if you are struggling with breastfeeding or the postpartum period. Take a moment to breathe and know you have created this little being, or you brought him/her into your home to love. Through breastfeeding, you are sustaining your baby’s life and giving him/her all s/he needs. That is something to celebrate!